Historical Kandy wows visitors with several standout city tours that give you the real scoop on Sri Lanka’s cultural capital. My favorite way to see the city is by private car or van – you’ll dodge the crowds and set your own pace. The full-day city tour hits all the must-sees efficiently, while adding a stop at the fascinating Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage.
Nature lovers shouldn’t miss the Botanical Gardens Peradeniya tour – the century-old gardens are spectacular, especially in the morning light. For something different, the Mahaweli River tour and the ambitious trek to Ambuluwawa Tower offer memorable views and local encounters you won’t find in guidebooks.
Let’s explore the top city tours that showcase the best of Kandy.
Key Points
- Kandy City Day Tours and Pinnawala Day Tour are highly rated options, offering comprehensive experiences at affordable prices with positive traveler reviews.
- Specialized Kandy Tours provide customized experiences, including city tours, botanical garden visits, and cultural performances at varying price points.
- Unique Kandy Experiences like the scenic train ride and tuk-tuk tours offer distinctive ways to explore the city’s highlights.
- Comprehensive Kandy City Tours provide all-inclusive options catering to different budgets and preferences, with good accessibility for most travelers.
- Private tours allow for personalization and flexibility to cater to individual needs, with most including amenities like transportation, guides, and entrance tickets.
Kandy City Day Tour and Trip Private Luxury Car and Van
For those interested in exploring the charming city of Kandy, the Kandy City Day Tour and Trip Private Luxury Car and Van offers a comprehensive and personalized sightseeing experience.
Operated by Lanka Safe Tours, this tour has earned a Badge of Excellence and 100% recommendation from travelers. Priced from $25.50 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a driver/guide, bottled water, free Wi-Fi, and a lunch at the local HoneyPot restaurant.
With 53 reviews and an overall rating of 5.0, this private tour allows guests to discover Kandy’s highlights, including a herb and spice garden, tea factory, gem museum, and the giant Buddha statue.
Most travelers can participate, though the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Read our full review: Kandy City Day Tour and Trip Private Luxury Car and Van Review
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Kandy: Sightseeing City Tour and Pinnawala Day Tour
The Kandy: Sightseeing City Tour and Pinnawala Day Tour offers an immersive exploration of Kandy’s cultural highlights and the renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. Priced from €35.75 per person, this private group tour lasts 8 hours and is available in Arabic, English, and Tamil.
Visitors will observe and learn about elephants at the Pinnawala Orphanage, explore the lush Peradeniya Botanical Garden, and discover tea production at a local factory. The tour also includes a vibrant Kandy cultural dance show and provides transportation, entry tickets, water, and lunch.
With free hotel pickup and drop-off, and flexible cancellation policies, this tour is an excellent way to experience the best of Kandy.
Read our full review: Kandy: Sightseeing City Tour and Pinnawala Day Tour Review
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I Day Kandy City Tour
A comprehensive one-day Kandy city tour offers visitors a chance to enjoy the rich cultural and historical heritage of this enchanting city.
Operated by Aruna Tours, the tour provides private transportation, bottled water, and the opportunity to explore various locations in Kandy.
With a 5.0 overall rating from 30 positive reviews, the tour is recommended by 100% of travelers.
Pickup is available from any hotel in Kandy, and the tour starts at 8:00 am.
Visitors can expect tailored experiences, knowledgeable guides, and accommodating service.
It’s important to prioritize sights in advance to optimize the experience.
Read our full review: I Day Kandy City Tour Review
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Kandy City Tour Including Botanical Gardens Peradeniya
Encompassing the city’s cultural and botanical highlights, the Kandy City Tour Including Botanical Gardens Peradeniya takes visitors on a comprehensive exploration of this enchanting destination.
The tour includes visits to the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, known for their diverse flora and landscaped grounds.
Travelers can also discover Kandy’s rich heritage through stops at the Temple of the Tooth, a revered Buddhist site, and the Kandy City Centre, home to vibrant markets.
With an expert local guide, the tour provides valuable insights into the city’s history and traditions.
Priced at $29.35 per person, this small-group experience offers a well-rounded introduction to the cultural and natural wonders of Kandy.
Read our full review: Kandy City Tour Including Botanical Gardens Peradeniya Review
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Kandy City Tour With Mahaweli
Offering a unique perspective on Kandy, the Kandy City Tour with Mahaweli takes visitors along the picturesque Mahaweli River, the longest river in Sri Lanka.
Priced at $38 for a group of up to 3 people, this private tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, and entrance fees.
The tour covers Kandy’s key attractions, with stops at the Temple of the Tooth Relic and the Royal Botanical Gardens Peradeniya.
Accessible for all, the tour accommodates infants, wheelchair users, and those with dietary requirements.
With a 100% recommendation rate and an overall rating of 5.0, this tour provides an immersive Kandy experience for travelers.
Read our full review: Kandy City Tour With Mahaweli Review
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Kandy City Tour
Kandy’s City Tour provides travelers with an immersive exploration of the historical and cultural highlights of this captivating Sri Lankan city.
Priced at €49.47 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive itinerary featuring photo stops, guided sightseeing, hiking, and a tea ceremony.
Visitors can expect to visit notable sites like the Old Dalada Palace, Darshaniya, and Peradeniya Flower Garden.
The tour includes deluxe accommodation, meals, and support from a tour leader and helper.
While suitable for most participants, the tour isn’t recommended for those over 95, wheelchair users, or individuals with low fitness levels.
Private group options are available, and the tour can be booked with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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Kandy To Nuwaraeliya Scenic Train Ride and Nuwaraeliya City Tour And Drop Ella
For those seeking a captivating journey from Kandy to Ella, the Kandy to Nuwaraeliya Scenic Train Ride and Nuwaraeliya City Tour is an ideal choice.
This private tour offers a 1st class train ride through the scenic hills, followed by a city tour of Nuwaraeliya. Priced at $130 for up to 3 people, the tour includes bottled water, a driver/guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, and all fees and taxes.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it offers infant seats and is stroller friendly.
With a 5.0 rating from 8 reviews, this tour provides an excellent opportunity to experience the beauty of Sri Lanka’s highlands.
Read our full review: Kandy To Nuwaraeliya Scenic Train Ride and Nuwaraeliya City Tour And Drop Ella Review
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Kandy City Tour With Micheal by Tuk Tuk
Michael’s Kandy City Tour by Tuk Tuk provides an immersive exploration of the city’s cultural and historical highlights.
At $10 per person, the 6-hour small-group tour offers incredible value. Guests will visit the city’s main viewpoint, the Bahirawakanda Big Buddha Statue, the Royal Botanic Gardens, and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
The tour also includes a visit to a tea factory, where travelers can experience the world’s best tea. Optional additions include a spice and herbal walk, a gem museum, and an Ayurvedic massage.
With a 5/5 rating based on positive reviews, this tour promises an extensive and personalized experience in Kandy, led by the knowledgeable and accommodating guide, Michael.
Read our full review: Kandy City Tour With Micheal by Tuk Tuk Review
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Kandy City Tour by Tuk Tuk
Tuk tuks whisk guests through Kandy’s bustling streets, providing an immersive city tour that showcases the area’s renowned cultural and historical landmarks.
Recommended by 100% of travelers, this private tour offers a personalized experience with a 5.0 rating based on 15 reviews.
Inclusions like bottled water, snacks, and an umbrella ensure comfort throughout the day.
Guests can opt for direct pickup or meet at the designated point, with the tour ending back at the starting location.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, except those with back problems, pregnant women, or serious medical conditions.
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Kandy: All-Inclusive Afternoon City Tour
Offering a comprehensive introduction to Kandy’s cultural treasures, the Kandy: All-Inclusive Afternoon City Tour provides visitors with a well-rounded experience of the city’s highlights.
Priced at €64.70 per person, the 6-hour tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, entrance fees, and a professional guide. Guests will explore the Peradeniya Botanical Garden, take in the panoramic views from the Upper Lake Drive, attend a Kandyan cultural show, and visit the renowned Temple of the Tooth.
However, some reviewers noted unwanted stops and perceived the cultural show as overly touristy. The tour offers a convenient way to experience Kandy’s key sights for those with limited time.
Read our full review: Kandy: All-Inclusive Afternoon City Tour Review
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Kandy City Tuk Tuk Tour Full Day
While the Kandy: All-Inclusive Afternoon City Tour provides a rundown, the Kandy City Tuk Tuk Tour Full Day offers a more immersive and personalized experience.
For $10 per person, this private tuk tuk tour allows you to explore Kandy at your own pace. With a knowledgeable driver, you’ll visit top sights, enjoy bottled water, and benefit from the flexibility to tailor the itinerary.
The tour earns rave reviews for its helpfulness and engaging guides. Travelers appreciate the ability to reschedule or cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
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Kandy: Tour With Local Guide-Scooter,City Around Local Areas
For those seeking a more immersive exploration of Kandy, the “Kandy: Tour With Local Guide-Scooter, City around Local Areas” offers a unique and customizable experience.
Priced from SEK 197 per person, this one-day tour allows you to explore the city and its local areas on an iconic scooter, accompanied by an English-speaking guide.
Highlights include visiting the Tooth Temple, botanical gardens, and cultural sites like the Kandy center market and a dancing show.
The tour is family-friendly and includes pickup, drop-off, food, and entrance tickets.
However, it’s not suitable for those over 70 years old or those with pets or electric wheelchairs.
Read our full review: Kandy: Tour With Local Guide-Scooter,City Around Local Areas Review
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Half-Day Kandy City Tour by Tuk Tuk
This half-day Kandy city tour by tuk-tuk provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the vibrant sights and sounds of the city from a unique vantage point.
Recommended by 100% of travelers and boasting a 5.0 rating, the tour includes private vehicle transport, a driver/guide, hotel/port drop-off, and entrance tickets.
Pickup is available from all Kandy city limit hotels, with an additional cost for pickups outside the city limits.
The tour starts at 10:30 am, and confirmation is received at booking.
Priced from $22.00 per person, the tour offers a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
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Kandy Drop With City Tour From Colombo, Negombo, Airport
Are you looking for a comprehensive Kandy experience that combines sightseeing and culture? The Kandy Drop with City Tour from Colombo, Negombo, or the Airport might be the perfect option.
This day-long excursion takes you to top attractions like the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Spice Garden, Tea Factory, and the iconic Temple of the Tooth Relic. Along the way, you’ll witness traditional crafts and enjoy a captivating cultural dance show.
With private transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and flexible booking options, this tour offers a seamless and immersive exploration of Kandy’s highlights. At just $40 per person, it’s a great value for the breadth of experiences.
Whether you’re based in Colombo, Negombo, or arriving at the airport, this tour makes Kandy accessible and unforgettable.
Read our full review: Kandy Drop With City Tour From Colombo, Negombo, Airport Review
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Memorable City Tour of Kandy
A comprehensive Kandy city tour promises a memorable experience for visitors eager to explore the cultural heart of Sri Lanka. Priced at just $10 per person, the 6-hour tour covers key attractions like the Royal Botanical Garden, Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, and Kandy Cultural Centre.
With free cancellation and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour offers unbeatable value. While entry fees to some sites are excluded, the tour includes hotel pickup, an English-speaking guide, and an audio guide.
With a 5/5 rating based on customer reviews, this tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Kandy, though it may not be suitable for those over 70 or wheelchair users due to accessibility challenges.
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Kandy City Tour With Three Temples – Day Tour Around Kandy
Set out on a captivating Kandy city tour that explores three of the city’s revered temples. This private day tour allows you to discover the cultural and religious significance of Kandy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You’ll be transported in an air-conditioned vehicle and enjoy the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. The tour covers the highlights of Kandy, including the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, the Gadaladeniya Temple, and the Embekke Devale.
With a rating of 5.0 from 4 reviews, this tour is an excellent way to learn about the rich heritage of Kandy. Priced from $63.00 per group (up to 3 people), it’s a fantastic value for a personalized sightseeing experience.
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Kandy: Ambuluwawa Tower, Tea Factory, and Kandy City Tour
Discover the best of Kandy on this immersive 8-hour tour that showcases the city’s cultural and natural wonders.
Explore the iconic Ambuluwawa Tower and enjoy breathtaking views over the city. Visit a renowned tea factory and learn about the art of tea production, with a tasting session included.
Discover the vibrant Kandy Lake Club and the impressive Bahirawakanda Buddha Statue. Optionally, visit the Royal Botanic Gardens and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
Throughout the tour, you’ll experience Kandyan cultural dance performances.
With a private tuk-tuk, entry tickets, and bottled water included, this tour provides a comprehensive Kandy experience.
Read our full review: Kandy: Ambuluwawa Tower, Tea Factory, and Kandy City Tour Review
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Kandy: City Tour by Tuk-Tuk With Lunch and Dance Performance
Explore the captivating city of Kandy on a comprehensive 7-hour private tuk-tuk tour.
This tour offers a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage, from the iconic Palace of the Sacred Tooth Relic to the stunning Bahirawakanda temple.
Marvel at the Kandyan architecture and stroll through the lush Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya.
Savor traditional Kandyan cuisine and witness a captivating dance performance featuring drummers and fire dancers.
Priced at $85 per person, this tour includes round-trip transportation, refreshments, lunch, and entrance fees.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this experience is a must-do for anyone visiting Kandy.
Read our full review: Kandy: City Tour by Tuk-Tuk With Lunch and Dance Performance Review
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Kandy City Tour With Sri Lanka Travel Mate
For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, the Kandy City Tour with Sri Lanka Travel Mate offers an engaging and immersive experience at a fraction of the cost.
Priced from just $35 per person, the tour includes a live English-speaking guide, hotel pickup, and visits to Kandy’s top attractions like the Temple of the Tooth, a botanical garden, and a tea plantation.
Travelers can also enjoy an Ayurvedic massage and a traditional Kandyan dance performance.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides excellent value for money.
However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, those over 95, or wheelchair users.
Read our full review: Kandy City Tour With Sri Lanka Travel Mate Review
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Kandy City Explore Private Tour
With a focus on showcasing the vibrant cultural and historical highlights of Kandy, the Kandy City Explore Private Tour offers travelers an immersive and personalized experience.
This 6-hour tour provides access to the city’s major attractions, including the Sacred Temple of the Tooth, Royal Botanical Garden, and Bahirawakanda Temple. Guests can expect a scenic drive through the UNESCO-listed Sacred City, as well as opportunities to explore Kandy’s market, shopping areas, and downtown.
Priced between Kč 343 and Kč 428 per person, the tour includes private transportation, an English-speaking driver, and all necessary entrance fees.
With the option for customization and flexibility, this tour caters to individual preferences and schedules.
Read our full review: Kandy City Explore Private Tour Review
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The Sum Up
Kandy offers a variety of engaging city tours that showcase its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. From private luxury tours to budget-friendly tuk-tuk rides, there’s an option to suit different preferences and budgets. Whether you want to explore the Temple of the Tooth, stroll through the Botanical Gardens, or visit a tea factory, Kandy’s city tours provide an immersive experience that brings the city’s history and traditions to life.